Dr PATTERSON (Dawson)
- by leaveThis project has been one which 1 suppose can best be described as a most unfortunate one. It has a relatively long history. As the Minister for the Interior (Mr Hunt) has stated, after the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works had made the decision to accept the proposal put forward to it originally there was in effect some strong criticism by people living in Darwin. They had every justification for making that criticism because not enough attention was given to the actual treatment and disposal of the effluent. Subsequently, as we know, as the Minister said, the matter was referred to in the Parliament, it was sent back to the Committee and the Committee after lengthy evidence rejected the proposal. It is obvious that something has to be done. It is essential to provide a plant which will satisfactorily treat and dispose of the sewage from the central zone. This is of the utmost importance particularly in a Federal Territory where it is essential thai every detail in relation to pollution control and with respect to sewage is given priority. I am pleased to say that the Opposition supports the decision of the Government to give this project the priority which it deserves to enable the construction of a first class treatment and disposal plant.